Information processing method, information processing program and information processing device

ABSTRACT

Provided are an information processing method, an information processing program, and an information processing device for copying or moving a file. The method includes a step for comparing file information and judging whether the file information coincide. The comparison element of the file information contains a file content. That is, the method includes: a step for comparing the file names of the copy source and copy destination or the movement source and the movement destination and judging whether a file of the same name exists in the copy destination or the movement destination; a step for comparing the file contents if a file of the same name exists in the copy destination or the movement destination so as to judge whether the file contents are identical; and a step for outputting the comparison results of the file contents.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.12/178,381, filed on Jul. 23, 2008, which is a continuation ofInternational Application No. PCT/JP2006/300995, filed on Jan. 24, 2006.The entire contents of these applications are herein incorporated byreference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to copying or moving a file in aninformation processing device such as a personal computer (PC).Specifically, the present invention relates to an information processingmethod, an information processing program and an information processingdevice for copying or moving a file.

2. Description of the Related Art

When a file is copied or moved in an information processing device suchas a PC, in case there is a file of the same name in a copy or movementdestination folder (or directory), a method is used that fileinformation is displayed and it is inquired whether the file of a copy(or movement) source is made to overwrite on the file of the same name,etc. to make a user select whether to overwrite. Here, copying a file isa process of copying a file of a copy source into a copy destinationfolder. Copying a file results in existence of identical files of thesame name in the copy source and copy destination. Moving a file is aprocess that after copying a file, the file of a copy source is erasedand only a file of a copy destination is left. The moving processdiffers from the copying process in the point whether the file remainsin the copy source. Overwriting a file is a process of overwriting afile of a copy source on a file existing in a copy destination.

Concerning such information processing, there are methods that: in aprocess of copying an image data file between different recording media,if there is a file of the same name in a recording medium of a copydestination and data contents thereof are identical, the copying processis stopped. If the data contents are different, the file is writtenafter its file name is changed (Japanese Patent Application Laid-openPublication No. 2003-296162 (paragraph Nos. 0007, 0034 to 0037, FIG. 6,etc.)); to prevent a file from being erroneously overwritten, an entitypart of a file to be transmitted from a digital camera to a server iscopied and a new file is generated. The new file is given a differentfile name from a source file name. The new file name has a variationpart where an increasing number according to transmission frequency isgiven. Therefore, the server recognizes the new file as individual one(Japanese Patent Application Laid-open Publication No. 2002-207621(paragraph Nos. 0062, 0063, 0066, 0067, 0069, 0070, FIGS. 16, 23,etc.)).

In an information processing device such as a PC, the process of copying(or moving) a file is executed, e.g., by a program shown in FIG. 1 withusing a dialog box 2 shown in FIG. 2. After the process of copying (ormoving) a file is started, as shown in FIG. 1, a determination processwhether a file of the same name exists in a copy destination is executed(step S1); if there is a file of the same name (YES at step S1), thedialog box 2 (FIG. 2) is displayed on a display connected to theinformation processing device (step S2).

In this case, since a file of the same name exists in the copydestination, it is displayed as file information on the dialog box 2that “Confirm Overwriting File” on a title bar 4, an icon 6representative of the process of copying or moving a file, icons 8 and10 representative of files, “This folder already contains a file named‘patent.doc’.”,

“Would you like to overwrite the existing file

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with this one?

-   -   19.0 KB    -   updated: 21 Jul. 2004, 15:30:00”        as file size and update dates and times thereof, for example,        and icons 12, 14, 16 and 18 for inputting a response at a bottom        line. It is displayed that on the icon 12, “Yes (Y)”        representative of an affirmation input, on the icon 14, “Yes to        All (A)” representative of an affirmation input, on the icon 16,        “No (N)” representative of a negation input and on the icon 18,        “Cancel” representative of an input for cancelling the process.        The display enables a user to recognize the file information        visibly, and to know there is the file of the same name in the        copy destination folder. The user can also respond for selecting        one of the desired icons 12 to 18 by moving a cursor 20        displayed on the dialog box 2 with being superimposed, and can        execute a process corresponding to the response.

In this case, determination described below is done; determination ofselection of “No (N)” (step S3); unless “No (N)” is selected (NO at stepS3), determination of selection of “Yes (Y)” (step S4); unless “Yes (Y)is selected (NO at step S4), determination of selection of “Yes to All(A)” (step S5); unless “Yes to All (A)” is selected (NO at step S5),determination of selection of “Cancel” (step S6). If “Cancel” isselected (YES at step S6), the process ends.

In such process, unless there is a file of the same name in the copydestination folder (NO at step S1), copying is executed to anotherdestination (copy or movement destination) folder (step S7). The copyingis executed, for example, by creating an empty file in the copydestination folder where the file of the copy source is overwritten. Inthis case, incase of moving a file, the file of the copy source iserased (step S8), and the process ends.

In the dialog box 2, if “No (N)” is selected (YES at step S3), theprocess ends. If “Yes (Y)” is selected (YES at step S4) in the dialogbox 2, overwriting is done on the file of the copy destination (stepS9), and the process moves to step S8. If “Yes to All (A)” is selected(YES at step S5) in the dialog box 2, overwriting is done on the file ofthe copy destination (step S10), and the process moves to step S8.Unless “Cancel” is selected (NO at step S6), the process returns to stepS3 and the process described above can be selected.

As stated above, file information can be referred to in confirmation anddetermination of overwriting a file with using the dialog box 2. That iseffective in case the number of treated files is small and the amount offile distribution between PCs is small. However, there is a limitinevitably in case of file treatment, that is, exchange of filesattached to electric mail that is sent and received frequently,treatment of many files downloaded from web sites, of many image filessuch as photos of a digital camera and of many files stored separatelyin a plurality of PCs that one user has. It is troublesome to respondone by one to an inquiry whether to overwrite when many files areintegrated.

As for copying or moving a file, there is a technical art that files aredistinguished by their dates and times, and newer one is left. Forexample, concerning files storing photos of a digital camera, sincethere is a case that although files of the same name exist, contentsthereof are different, in integration, both of the files of the samename must be left. In such case, a process is insufficient for filemanagement that an inquiry whether to overwrite or leaving only a fileof the latest date and time without confirmation of file contents.

The background of existing files of the same name and contents is thatpeople use PCs in their own way. For example, a user stores image filesof a digital camera in a disc of a PC. When using the file withprocessing, since the user does not want to lose them because ofmiss-operation, etc., the same files are stored in a plurality offolders including network files, or copied files are stored in harddiscs of a plurality of PCs. If one user uses many PCs, the case mayoccur that not only such backup, but also storing a plurality of filesas well in order to offer the files for an edit or use without limit oftime and location.

An edit called a retouch such as color adjustments, resizing andtrimming is general for camera images. If a file is processed accordingto a situation where the file is used, information such as resolution ofthe original file is lost, and the original file is requested to be leftwith a processed file. To supplement failure during the edit, theexistence of the original file is valuable. There is also meaning ofleaving a processed file at each stage in case the file is processed inseveral stages. It is performed in general to store a processed file ateach stage in another folder. In this case, files of the same name anddifferent contents exist.

If a user uses a plurality of PCs according to the desired time andlocation, etc., it meets the user's request that the same files arestored in various places, moreover there is no distinction between thesame files whether to be a master or backup, and a file in a folder canbe processed in proper time. This may be the reason why files of thesame name and different contents exist at the same time.

In a digital camera, a file of the same name is generated by a resetprocess. It cannot be ignored that if the reset process is performed aswell in a plurality of digital cameras, many files of the same name aregenerated.

In sending and receiving a file attached to electronic mail and a filewith using an HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol) server, etc., it isgeneral that a file of the same name and contents but different updatedate and time is generated in a receiver side.

About a file edited in a folder, some users feel difficultydistinguishing the original file from a processed file as time haspassed. If a totally different photo is stored in a file of the samename, or a file of different update date and time and the same contentsis generated, distinction thereof is more difficult.

In case that files having existed for a long time or files in a state ofconfusion are arranged to be integrated, some users request to store afile of the same name but different contents as another file. Otherusers also request to unify files attached to electronic mail, etc. inintegration even if each file has different update date and time.

There is no disclosure or suggestion about such requests and problems inJapanese Patent Application Laid-open Publication Nos. 2003-296162 and2002-207621, and no structure to solve them is disclosed or suggestedtherein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention relates to copying or moving a file,and is to improve convenience of file processing.

Described more particularly, the object thereof relates to copying ormoving a file, and is to reduce user's operation to facilitate efficientfile processing.

Another object of the present invention relates to copying or moving afile, and is to facilitate easiness or efficiency of file management.

To achieve the above object, a first aspect of the present inventionthere is provided an information processing method for copying or movinga file, comprising the step of: comparing file information anddetermining whether the file information coincides, wherein comparingelements of the file information include file contents. By suchstructure, the above objects can be achieved.

To achieve the above objects, a second aspect of the present inventionthere is provided an information processing method for copying or movinga file, comprising the steps of: comparing file names of a copy sourceand a copy destination, or a movement source and a movement destination,and determining whether a file of the same name exists in the copydestination or the movement destination; comparing file contents anddetermining whether the file contents are identical, when a file of thesame name exists in the copy destination or the movement destination;and outputting a comparing result of the file contents.

As stated above, if, file contents are compared after file names arecompared and a comparing result of the file contents is output, it is noneed for a user to compare whether the file contents are identical ornot with opening files. Thus, a process such as copying or moving a filecan be executed easily and rapidly.

To achieve the above objects, preferably, the above informationprocessing method may comprise the steps of: comparing file date andtime, when the file contents are identical; inquiring whether the filedate and time is modified when the file date and time is different; andmodifying the date and time in response to the inquiry. Even if filecontents are identical, the above inquiry enables a correspondingprocess if file date and time is different.

To achieve the above objects, preferably, the above informationprocessing method may comprise the steps of: inquiring whether the fileof the copy source or the movement source is overwritten on the file ofthe copy destination or the movement destination when the file contentsare different; and overwriting the file in response to the inquiry. Suchprocess prevents a file of a copy destination from being erroneouslyerased to improve storability of the file.

To achieve the above objects, preferably, the information processingmethod may comprise the steps of: inquiring whether the file name ismodified when the file contents are different; and modifying the filename in response to the inquiry. Such process avoids giving a file ofdifferent contents the same name to improve accuracy of file management.

To achieve the above objects, a third aspect of the present inventionthere is provided an information processing method for copying or movinga file, comprising the steps of: comparing file names of a copy sourceand a copy destination, or a movement source and a movement destination,and determining whether a file of the same name exists in the copydestination or the movement destination; in case a file of the same nameexists in the copy destination or movement destination, comparing filesize and determining whether the file size is identical, when a file ofthe same name exists in the copy destination or the movementdestination; and outputting a comparing result of the file.

According to such structure, compared with the comparing process of filecontents, inconsistency of file contents can be confirmed by confirminginconsistency of file size, and thus more rapid processing isfacilitated.

To achieve the above objects, preferably, the information processingmethod may comprise the step of: inquiring whether the comparison of afile is continued when the compared file size is huge. This cancontribute to rapidness for file processing as well.

To achieve the above objects, a fourth aspect of the present inventionthere is provided an information processing program for causing acomputer to execute copying or moving a file, comprising the step of:comparing file information and determining whether the file informationcoincides, wherein comparing elements of the file information includefile contents.

To achieve the above objects, a fifth aspect of the present inventionthere is provided an information processing program for causing acomputer to execute copying or moving a file, comprising the steps of:comparing file names of a copy source and a copy destination, or amovement source and a movement destination, and determining whether afile of the same name exists in the copy destination or the movementdestination; comparing file contents and determining whether the filecontents are identical, when a file of the same name exists in the copydestination or movement destination; and outputting a comparing resultof the file contents.

By using such information processing program, the above describedinformation processing method can be realized with a computer.

To achieve the above objects, preferably, the information processingprogram may comprise the steps of: in case the file contents areidentical, comparing file date and time; inquiring whether the file dateand time is modified when the file date and time is different; andmodifying the date and time in response to the inquiry.

To achieve the above objects, preferably, the information processingprogram may comprise the steps of: inquiring whether the file of thecopy source or the movement source is overwritten on the file of thecopy destination or the movement destination when the file contents aredifferent; and overwriting the file in response to the inquiry.

To achieve the above objects, preferably, the information processingprogram may comprise the steps of: inquiring whether the file name ismodified when the file contents are different; and modifying the filename in response to the inquiry.

To achieve the above objects, a sixth aspect of the present inventionthere is provided an information processing program for causing acomputer to execute copying or moving a file, comprising the steps of:comparing file names of a copy source and copy a destination, or amovement source and a movement destination, and determining whether afile of the same name exists in the copy destination or the movementdestination; comparing file size and determining whether the file sizeis identical when a file of the same name exists in the copy destinationor the movement destination; and outputting a comparing result of thefile contents.

To achieve the above objects, preferably, the information processingprogram may comprise the step of: inquiring whether the comparison of afile is continued when the compared file size is huge.

To achieve the above objects, a seventh aspect of the present inventionthere is provided an information processing device for copying or movinga file, comprising: a processing unit that compares file information anddetermines whether the file information coincides, wherein comparingelements of the file information include file contents.

To achieve the above objects, an eighth aspect of the present inventionthere is provided an information processing device for copying or movinga file, comprising: a processing unit that compares file names of a copysource and a copy destination, or a movement source and a movementdestination and determines whether a file of the same name exists in thecopy destination or the movement destination, compares file contentswhen a file of the same name exists in the copy destination or themovement destination, determines whether the file contents areidentical, and outputs a determination result thereof; and a displaythat displays the output of the processing unit.

According to such structure, after comparing file names, the processingunit compares file contents to output a comparing result thereof on thedisplay. A user does not have to compare whether the file contents areidentical or not with opening files. A process such as copying or movinga file can be easily and rapidly performed.

To achieve the above objects, according to the above informationprocessing device, preferably the processing unit may compare file dateand time when the file contents are identical; inquire whether the filedate and time is modified when the file date and time is different; andmodify the date and time in response to the inquiry.

To achieve the above objects, according to the above informationprocessing device, preferably the processing unit may, in case the filecontents are different, inquire whether the file of the copy source orthe movement source is overwritten on the file of the copy destinationor the movement destination; and overwrite the file in response to theinquiry.

To achieve the above objects, according to the above informationprocessing device, preferably the processing unit may, in case the filecontents are different, inquire whether the file name is modified; andmodify the file name in response to the inquiry.

To achieve the above objects, a ninth aspect of the present inventionthere is provided an information processing device for copying or movinga file, comprising: a processing unit that compares file names of a copysource and a copy destination, or a movement source and a movementdestination and determines whether a file of the same name exists in thecopy destination or the movement destination, compares file size when afile of the same name exists in the copy destination or the movementdestination, determines whether the file size is identical, and outputsa determination result thereof; and a display that displays the outputof the processing unit.

To achieve the above objects, according to the above informationprocessing device, preferably the processing unit may, in case thecompared file size is huge, inquire whether the comparison of a file iscontinued.

The features and advantages of the present invention are listed asfollows.

(1) Copying or moving a large variety of files such that contentsthereof are identical but dates and times thereof are different can bemade simplify, and convenience of file management can be improved.

(2) About copying or moving a file, user's operation can be reduced andfile processing can be facilitated to be efficient.

(3) About copying or moving a file, efficiency of management of filecontents can be facilitated.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will bemore clear by referring to the accompanying drawings and theembodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a conventional processing program;

FIG. 2 depicts a conventional dialog box;

FIG. 3 depicts an example of a personal computer used for copying ormoving a file according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing program forcopying (or moving) a file;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a modifying process of a file name;

FIG. 6 depicts an example of a dialog box representative of confirmationof overwriting accompanying with modifying of a file name;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a file date and time modification process;

FIG. 8 is an example of a dialog box representative of confirmation offile date and time modification;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing another file date and time modificationprocess;

FIG. 10 depicts another dialog box for confirming file date and timemodification;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a process of a comparing process of filecontents with reference to file size;

FIG. 12 is an example of a dialog box representative of a processconcerning file size;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a processing program for copying a fileaccording to a second embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a processing program for copying aplurality of files following FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a processing program for copying aplurality of files following FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a processing program for copying aplurality of files following FIG. 13;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a processing program for copying a fileaccording to a third embodiment;

FIGS. 18A to 18E depict file processes of each case corresponding todetermination processes 1 to 4;

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a modifying process of a file name;

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a variation of a processing program forcopying a file;

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a processing program for copying a fileaccording to a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 22 is an example of a dialog box used for confirmation of modifyingfile date and time;

FIG. 23 depicts another dialog box used for confirmation of modifyingfile date and time;

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a processing program for copying a fileaccording to a fifth embodiment;

FIG. 25 depicts an example of a dialog box used for confirmation ofmodifying a file name;

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a processing program for copying a fileaccording to a sixth embodiment;

FIG. 27 depicts an example of a dialog box used for confirmation ofmodifying a file name;

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a process of assuming that file size ishuge according to a seventh embodiment;

FIG. 29 depicts an example of a dialog box used for confirmation ofcomparing files;

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing another process of considering whetherfile size coincides according to an eighth embodiment; and

FIG. 31 depicts an information processing system according to a ninthembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS First Embodiment

A first embodiment of the present invention will be described withreference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 depicts an example of a personal computer(PC) used for copying or moving a file.

This personal computer (PC) 22 is one example of an informationprocessing device used in information processing for copying or moving afile. The PC 22 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 24 as a dataprocessing unit, a memory 26 and an input output unit (I/O) 28, etc. TheCPU 24, the memory 26 and the I/O 28 are interacted via a bus 30.

The CPU 24 executes a processing program 32, etc. stored in the memory26 to compare file information. According to a comparing result thereof,the CPU 24 executes a process such as copying or moving a file. Thememory 26 is configured by recording media such as a ROM (Read-OnlyMemory), a RAM (Random-Access Memory) and a hard disc to store theprocessing program 32 and other programs, etc. The processing program 32is software for executing various information processes such as copying,moving or overwriting a file described below. For example, theprocessing program 32 is installed to be stored in a file stored in ahard disc. Data such as a file in the middle of processing is stored inthe RAM temporally.

Here, copying a file is a process of copying a file of a copy sourceinto a copy destination folder. Moving a file is a process that aftercopying a file, a file of a copy source is erased and only a file of acopy destination is left. Overwriting a file is a process of overwritinga file of a copy source on a file existing in a copy destination. Thatis, in copying a file, processes described below are executed:

a create an empty file in a copy destination;

b write file contents of a copy source into the empty file of the copydestination; and

c set file update date and time of the copy destination as that of thecopy source.

In overwriting a file, processes described below are executed:

a erase a file in a copy destination;

b create an empty file in the copy destination;

c write file contents of a copy source into the empty file of the copydestination; and

d set file update date and time of the copy destination as that of thecopy source.

or,

e modify a file of a copy destination to be empty;

f write file contents of a copy source into the empty file of the copydestination; and

g set file update date and time of the copy destination as that of thecopy source.

The I/O 28 has functions as an input device for inputting data andprograms to the CPU 24 and the memory 26, and as an output device foroutputting an execution result, etc. To the I/O 28, a keyboard 34 usedfor cursor operation and data input, etc. is connected. Also, a display36 as an output unit or a display for outputting file information andinquiry messages is connected to the I/O 28. A storage 38, for exampleas a recording medium, is connected to the I/O 28. One or a plurality offiles are stored in the storage 38. The plurality of files are managedwith being classified into folders or directories. The storage 38 may bedisposed outside the PC 22. The storage 38 is not limited to a form of adevice and storing. The I/O 28 has a function of sending and receivingdata with being connected to a network.

By executing the processing program 32 with using such PC 22, followingprocesses can be performed.

(1) File information is compared. As this comparing process, in case oneor a plurality of files existing in a specific folder (or directory) arecopied (or moved) to another folder (or directory), if there is a fileof the same name in the copy destination folder, file contents arecompared.

(2) As a comparing element of file information, if the file contents areidentical, file dates and times are compared. If the dates and times aredifferent, it is inquired whether the file date and time of the copydestination folder is set at older date and time or newer date and time.

(3) If the file contents are different, whether the file is overwrittenor not is inquired.

(4) Whether a file name is modified automatically or not is inquired.

(5) In case modification of the file name is selected, aftermodification of the file name, the file is copied.

(6) In case whether the file contents are identical or not is compared,it is assumed that it takes enormous time for the comparison if filesize is huge. If the files are predetermined size or over, whether thecomparison is continued or not is inquired. In this case, it may beperformed that not whether the files are predetermined size or over isinquired, but after parts of the files (for example, front parts of thefiles) are compared, whether the comparison is continued or not isinquired if the parts thereof are identical.

In these processes, the above described processes of inquiry areexecuted by display of dialog boxes (D1 to D9) on the display 36. Alsoas to moving a file, the processes (1) to (6) may be performed. If afile of a copy source is erased, file moving has done.

By such file processes, efficient file copy or movement can be done andefficient file management also can be done.

Processes for copying (or moving) a file will be described withreference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of aprocessing program for copying (or moving) a file.

The above listed processes are executed as follows.

If the process for copying (or moving) a file is started, file names arecompared and whether a file of the same name exists or not in a copydestination is determined (step S101). If a file of the same name exists(YES at step S101), file contents are compared and whether file contentsof the copy destination are identical or not with that of a copy sourceis determined (step S102). If the file contents of the copy destinationare identical (YES at step S102), file dates and times are compared.Whether file date and time of the copy destination is identical withthat of the copy source is determined (step S103). If the file dates andtimes are identical (YES at step S103), the files of the copydestination and copy source are completely identical.

In this case, whether the process is moving a file or not is determined(step S104). If it is moving a file (YES at step S104), the file of thecopy source is erased (step S105) and the process is ended. If it is notmoving a file (NO at step S104), the process is ended.

In this process, unless a file of the same name exists in the copydestination (NO at step S101), the file is copied to another destinationfolder (step S106). As described above, copying is executed, forexample, by creating an empty file in the copy destination folder wherea file of a copy source is overwritten. In this case, whether theprocess is moving a file or not is determined (step S104). In case notmoving a file (NO at step S104), the process is ended. In case of movinga file (YES at step S104), the file of the copy source is erased (stepS105) and the process is ended.

In case a file of the same name exists in the copy destination and thefile contents thereof are different (NO at step S102), a modifyingprocess of a file name (FIG. 5) is executed (step S107), the file iscopied (step S108) and the process moves to step S104. If the file dateand time of the copy destination is different (NO at step S103), amodifying process of date and time (FIG. 7) is executed (step S109), andthe process moves to step S104.

Modification of a file name (S107 in FIG. 4) will be described withreference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a modifyingprocess of a file name and FIG. 6 depicts an example of a dialog boxrepresentative of confirmation of overwriting by accompanying withmodifying of a file name.

This process intends that since file names of a copy source and copydestination are identical but contents thereof are different, one of thefile names is modified and both files of different contents are stored.Then, in the modifying process of a file name, a dialog box D1 shown inFIG. 6 is displayed and input selection is promoted to a user (stepS121). This dialog box D1 displays file information and inquirymessages, etc. in case a file of the same name but different contentsexists in the copy destination folder. That is, in the dialog box D1, itis displayed as file information on a title bar 204 that “ConfirmOverwriting File”, an icon 206 representative of the process of copyingor moving a file, icons 208 and 210 representative of the files, “Thisfolder already contains a file named ‘patent.doc’ of differentcontents.”,

“Would you like to overwrite the existing file

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with this one?

-   -   19.0 KB    -   update: 21 Jul. 2004, 15:30:00”        as file size and update dates and times thereof, for example,        and icons 212, 214, 216, 218, 222, 224 and 226 for inputting a        response. It is displayed that on the icon 212, “Yes (Y)”        representative of an affirmation input, on the icon 214, “Yes to        All Hereafter (A)” representative of an affirmation input, on        the icon 216, “No (N)” representative of a negation input, on        the icon 222, “Modify Existing File Name (R)” representative of        modifying contents, on the icon 224, “Modify Newer File Name        (T)” representative of modifying contents, on the icon 226,        “Modify All File Names of Older Update Dates and Times        Automatically Hereafter (O)” representative of automatic        modification as modifying contents, and on the icon 218,        “Cancel” representative of an input for cancelling the process.

In the dialog box D1, determination described below is done:determination of selection of “No (N)” (step S122); unless “No (N)” isselected (NO at step S122), determination of selection of “Yes (Y)”(step S123); unless “Yes (Y)” is selected (NO at step S123),determination of selection of “Yes to All (A)” (step S124); unless “Yesto All (A)” is selected (NO at step S124), determination of selection of“Modify Existing File Name (R)” (step S125); unless “Modify ExistingFile Name (R)” is selected (NO at step S125), determination of selectionof “Modify Newer File Name (T)” (step S126); unless “Modify Newer FileName (T)” is selected, (NO at step S126), determination of selection of“Modify All File Names of Older Update Dates and Times AutomaticallyHereafter (O)” (step S127); unless “Modify All File Names of OlderUpdate Dates and Times Automatically Hereafter (O)” is selected (NO atstep S127), determination of selection of “Cancel” (step S128). If“Cancel” is selected (YES at step S128), the process returns to stepS107 (FIG. 4).

In the dialog box D1, if “No (N)” is selected (YES at step S122), theprocess returns to step S107 (FIG. 4). If “Yes (Y)” is selected (YES atstep S123) in the dialog box D1, overwriting of the next newer file isdone on the existing file (step S129). Whether moving a file or not isdetermined (step S130). If it is moving a file (YES at step S130), thefile of the copy source is erased (step S131) and the process is ended.Unless it is moving a file (No at step S130), after overwriting, theprocess is ended.

If “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” is selected (YES at step S124), the newerfile is overwritten on the existing file (step S132) and the processmoves to step S130.

In the dialog box D1, if “Modify Existing File Name (R)” is selected(YES at step S125), the exiting file name is modified (step S133). If“Modify Newer File Name (T)” is selected (YES at step S126), the newerfile name is modified (step S134). If “Modify All File Names of OlderUpdate Dates and Times Automatically Hereafter (O)” is selected (YES atstep S127), all file names of older Update dates and times are modifiedautomatically hereafter (step S135) and the process returns to step S107(FIG. 4).

Here, automatic modification of a file name means, for example, if afile name of older update date and time is “patent.doc”, the namethereof is modified to, e.g., “patent-040721.doc”. In this case, if“patent-040721.doc” has existed, the name may be modified like“patent-040721-1.doc”. Such modification of a file name is option.

Modification of file date and time (S109 in FIG. 4) will be describedwith reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a filedate and time modification process and FIG. 8 is an example of a dialogbox to confirm modification of update date and time of a file.

In a modification process of file date and time, a dialog box D2 (FIG.8) is displayed (step S1091). This dialog box D2 displays fileinformation and inquiry messages, etc. in case a file of the same nameand contents exists in the copy destination folder. That is, in thedialog box D2, as shown in FIG. 8, it is displayed as file informationon the title bar 204 that “Confirm Modification of Update Date and Timeof File”, the icon 206 representative of the process of copying ormoving a file, the icons 208 and 210 representative of files, “Thisfolder already contains a file named ‘patent.doc’ of the samecontents.”,

“Would you like to modify update date and time of the existing file

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with this one?

-   -   19.0 KB    -   updated: 21 Jul. 2004, 15:30:00”        as file sizes and update dates and times thereof, for example,        and icons 212, 214, 216 and 218 for inputting a response. It is        displayed that on the icon 212, “Yes (Y)” representative of an        affirmation input, on the icon 214, “Yes to All Hereafter (A)”        representative of an affirmation input, on the icon 216, “No        (N)” representative of a negation input, and on the icon 218,        “Cancel” representative of an input for cancelling the process.

In the dialog box D2, determination described below is done:determination of selection of “No (N)” (step S1092); unless “No (N)” isselected (NO at step S1092), determination of selection of “Yes (Y)”(step S1093); unless “Yes (Y)” is selected (NO at step S1093),determination of selection of “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” (step S1094);unless “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” is selected (NO at step S1094),determination of selection of “Cancel” (step S1095). If “Cancel” isselected (YES at step S1095), the process returns to step S109 (FIG. 4).

In the dialog box D2, if “No (N)” is selected (YES at step S1092), theprocess returns to step S109 (FIG. 4). If “Yes (Y)” is selected (YES atstep S1093) in the dialog box D2, the existing file date and time ismodified to the next new file update date and time (step S1096), and theprocess returns to step S109 (FIG. 4). If “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” isselected (YES at step S1094) in the dialog box D2, all the existing filedates and times are modified to the next new file update dates and timeshereafter (step S1097), and the process returns to step S109 (FIG. 4).

Another modification of file date and time (S109 in FIG. 4) will bedescribed with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9 is a flowchartshowing another modification process of file date and time and FIG. 10depicts another dialog box for confirming modification of file updatedate and time.

In a modification process of file date and time, a dialog box D3 shownin FIG. 10 is displayed (step S2091). This dialog box D3 displays fileinformation and inquiry messages, etc. in case a file of the same nameand contents exists in the copy destination folder. That is, in thedialog box D3, it is displayed as file information on the title bar 204that “Confirm Modification of Update Date and Time of File”, the icon206 representative of the process of copying or moving a file, the icons208 and 210 representative of files, “This folder already contains afile named ‘patent.doc’ of the same contents.”,

“Would you like to modify update date and time of the existing file

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with this one?

-   -   19.0 KB    -   updated: 21 Jul. 2004, 15:30:00”        as file sizes and update dates and times thereof, for example,        and icons 212, 214, 216, 218, 228 and 230 for inputting a        response. It is displayed that on the icon 212, “Yes (Y)”        representative of an affirmation input, on the icon 214, “Yes to        All Hereafter (A)” representative of an affirmation input, on        the icon 216, “No (N)” representative of a negation input, on        the icon 218, “Cancel” representative of an input for cancelling        the process, on the icon 228, “Modify All Update Dates and Times        to Newer Ones Hereafter (L)”, and on the icon 230, “Modify All        Update Dates and Times to Older Ones Hereafter (O)”.

In the dialog box D3, determination described below is done:determination of selection of “No (N)” (step S2092); unless “No (N)” isselected (NO at step S2092), determination of selection of “Yes (Y)”(step S2093); unless “Yes (Y) is selected (NO at step S2093),determination of selection of “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” (step S2094);unless “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” is selected (NO at step S2094),determination of selection of “Modify All Update Dates and Times toNewer Ones Hereafter (L)” (step S2095); unless “Modify All Update Datesand Times to Newer Ones Hereafter (L)” is selected (NO at step S2095),determination of selection of “Modify All Update Dates and Times toOlder Ones Hereafter (O)” (step S2096); unless “Modify All Update Datesand Times to Older Ones Hereafter (O)” is selected (NO at step S2096),determination of selection of “Cancel” (step S2097). If “Cancel” isselected (YES at step S2097), the process returns to step S109 (FIG. 4).

In the dialog box D3, if “No (N)” is selected (YES at step S2092), theprocess returns to step S109 (FIG. 4). If “Yes (Y)” is selected (YES atstep S2093) in the dialog box D3, update date and time is modified (stepS2098), and the process returns to step S109 (FIG. 4). If “Yes to AllHereafter (A)” is selected (YES at step S2094) in the dialog box D3, allupdate dates and times are modified (step S2099), and the processreturns to step S109 (FIG. 4).

In the dialog box D3, if “Modify All Update Dates and Times to NewerOnes Hereafter (L)” is selected (YES at step S2095), all update datesand times are modified to newer ones hereafter (step S2100). If “ModifyAll Update Dates and Times to Older Ones Hereafter (O)” is selected (YESat step S2096), all update dates and times are modified to older oneshereafter (step S2101).

As is clear from such process, in case a file of the same name whosecontents and update time and date coincide exists in the copydestination folder, a copying process is not necessary. In case ofmoving a file, a file of a movement source is erased.

Comparison of file contents will be described with reference to FIGS. 11and 12. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a process of a comparing processof file contents with reference to file size and FIG. 12 is an exampleof a dialog box representative of a process concerning file size.

As described above, comparison of file size can be partly substituted ofcomparison of file contents. In the comparison of file contents (stepS102 in FIG. 4), in a process of referring to file size, whether filesize is identical or not is determined (step S1021). If the file size isidentical (YES at step S1021), whether the file size is a predeterminedsize or over, or not is determined (step S1022). If the file size is thepredetermined size or over (YES at step S1022), the dialog box D4 shownin FIG. 12 is displayed (step S1023).

In the dialog box D4, as file information and inquiry to continue thecomparing process, it is displayed that “File size is at least **MB.Would you like to compare files till end thereof?”, the icon 212representative of an affirmation input “Yes (Y)”, the icon 216representative of a negation input “No (N)”, and the icon 218representative of an input for cancelling the process “Cancel”.

In the dialog box D4, determination described below is done:determination of selection of “No (N)” (step S1024); unless “No (N)” isselected (NO at step S1024), determination of selection of “Yes (Y)”(step S1025); unless “Yes (Y) is selected (NO at step S1025),determination of selection of “Cancel” (step S1026). If “Cancel” isselected (YES at step S1026), the process returns to step S102 in FIG.4.

Unless the file size is the predetermined size or over (NO at stepS1022), the comparing process is continued (step S1027) and whether thecomparing process is ended or not is determined (step S1028). After thecomparing process is ended, the process returns to step S102 in FIG. 4to move to step S103. In the dialog box D4, if “No (N)” is selected (YESat step S1024), the process returns to step S102 in FIG. 4. If “YES (Y)”is selected (YES at step S1025), the process moves to step S1027 and thecomparing process is continued. By the end of the comparing process, theprocess moves to step S103 in FIG. 4.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment of the present invention will be described withreference to FIGS. 13, 14, 15 and 16. FIGS. 13, 14, 15 and 16 areflowcharts showing a processing program for copying a plurality offiles. In FIG. 13, 14, 15 or 16, marks A, B, C, D, E and F areconnectors representative of connection between flowcharts.

In the second embodiment, the above described PC 22 (FIG. 3) is used.Brief description thereof is as above.

In a flowchart in FIG. 13 showing a copying process of a file, in thiscase, conditions are set that m=the number of files in a copy source,n=1, c=0 and d=0 (step S301). Here, m, which is the number of files inthe copy source, means the number of processed files. n is a variablerepresentative of what number of files is being processed at presentagainst m. In this case, because of n=1, the process is started fromn=an initial value, 1. Every after the process is ended, 1 is applied ton because of n=n+1 and the process is ended by n>m.

c is, for example, a variable representative whether “Yes to AllHereafter (A)” has been selected or not by an icon 214 in a dialog boxD3 (FIG. 10). An initial value equals 0 (has not been selected).

d is a variable representative of a selective operation. In this case,an initial value is set in 0. For example, in the dialog box D3, it isset that selection of “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” (the icon 214) is d=1,selection of “Modify All Update Dates and Times to Older Ones Hereafter(O)” (an icon 230) is d=2 and selection of “Modify All Update Dates andTimes to Newer Ones Hereafter (L)” (an icon 228) is d=3. Thus, drepresents selection of corresponding icons 214, 230 and 228.

In this case, as initial values, n=1, c=0 and d=0 are set (step S301). mand n are compared (step S302) and if n>m (YES at step S302), since thenumber of processes n is over the number of files m and all theprocesses have been ended, the process is ended. Unless n>m (NO at stepS302), the process moves to a comparing process of files of the samename.

If n<m (NO at step S302), file names are compared and whether a file ofthe same name as an nth file in the copy source exists in a copydestination folder or not is determined (step S303).

If a file of the same name exists in the copy destination folder (YES atstep S303), file contents are compared and whether nth file's contentsin the copy source coincide with contents of the same name file in thecopy destination or not is determined (step S304).

If the nth file's contents in the copy source coincide with the contentsof the same name file in the copy destination (YES at step S304), filedates and times are compared. Whether nth file's date and time in thecopy source coincide with date and time of the same name file in thecopy destination or not is determined (step S305).

If the nth file's date and time in the copy source is different from thedate and time of the same name file in the copy destination (NO at stepS305), whether d=0 or not is determined (step S306). If d=0 (YES at stepS306), the dialog box D3 (FIG. 10) is displayed on a display 36 and aninput from a user is waited (step S307).

About an input to the dialog box D3, it is determined that whether “No(N)” (an icon 216) is selected (step S308), whether “Yes (Y)” (an icon212) is selected (step S309), whether “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” (theicon 214) is selected (step S310), whether “Modify All Update Dates andTimes to Older Ones Hereafter (O)” (the icon 230) is selected (stepS311) and whether “Modify All Update Dates and Times to Newer OnesHereafter (L)” (the icon 228) is selected (step S312). If no selectionsare made, it means cancel of the process. Thus, the process is ended.

In the input process of the dialog box D3 (FIG. 10) of such process, if“Yes to All Hereafter (A)” (the icon 214) is selected (YES at stepS310), 1 is set to d (step S313). If “Modify All Update Dates and Timesto Older Ones Hereafter (O)” (the icon 230) is selected (YES at stepS311), 2 is set to d (step S314). If “Modify All Update Dates and Timesto Newer ones Hereafter (L)” (the icon 228) is selected (YES at stepS312), 3 is set to d (step S315).

A flowchart shown in FIG. 14 will be described. In the flowchart in FIG.14, unless a file of the same name as the nth file in the copy sourceexists in the copy destination folder (NO at step S303), the nth file inthe copy source is copied to the copy destination folder (step S316), 1is applied to n at present, that is, a process of n=n+1 is executed(step S317) and the process returns to a main routine in FIG. 13 (stepS302).

Unless d=0 (NO at step S306) or if d=1, d=2 and d=3 are set in each stepS313, S314 and S315, the process moves to step S318. In step S318, it isconfirmed whether d=1. If d=1 (YES at step S318), the nth file in thecopy source is copied to the copy destination folder (step S316), 1 isadded to present n, that is, the process of n=n+1 is executed (stepS317) and the process returns to the main routine in FIG. 13 (stepS302).

Unless d=1 (NO at step S318), it is confirmed whether the file in thecopy source is newer than that in the copy destination (step S319). Ifthe file is newer (YES at step S319), it is confirmed whether d=2 (stepS320). If d=2 (YES at step S320), 1 is added to n at present, that is, aprocess of n=n+1 is executed (step S317) and the process returns to themain routine in FIG. 13 (step S302). Unless d=2 (NO at step S320), filedate and time of a file of the same name as the nth file in the copysource is modified to identical date and time with that of the file inthe copy source (step S321), 1 is applied to n at present, that is, theprocess of n=n+1 is executed (step S317) and the process returns to themain routine in FIG. 13 (step S302).

If the file in the copy source is older than that in the copydestination (NO at step S319), it is confirmed whether d=2 (step S322).If d=2 (YES at step S322), the file date and time of the file of thesame name as the nth file in the copy source is modified to identicaldate and time with that of the file in the copy source (step S321), 1 isapplied to n at present, that is, the process of n=n+1 is executed (stepS317) and the process returns to the main routine in FIG. 13 (stepS302). Unless d=2 (NO at step S322), 1 is applied to n at present, thatis, the process of n=n+1 is executed (step S317) and the process returnsto the main routine in FIG. 13 (step S302).

File dates and times are compared. If the file date and time of the nthfile in the copy source coincides with that of the same name file in thecopy destination (YES at step S305), 1 is applied to n at present, thatis, the process of n=n+1 is executed (step S317) and the process returnsto the main routine in FIG. 13 (step S302).

If “No (N)” is selected in the dialog box D3 (FIG. 10) (YES at stepS308), 1 is applied to n at present, that is, the process of n=n+1 isexecuted (step S317) and the process returns to the main routine in FIG.13 (step S302) as well.

If “Yes (Y)” is selected in the dialog box D3 (FIG. 10) (YES at stepS309), the file date and time of the file of the same name as the nthfile in the copy source is modified to identical date and time with thatof the file in the copy source (step S321), 1 is applied to n atpresent, that is, the process of n=n+1 is executed (step S317) and theprocess returns to the main routine in FIG. 13 (step S302).

A flowchart shown in FIG. 15 will be described. In the flowchart in FIG.13, if the nth file's contents in the copy source and the contents ofthe same name file in the copy destination are different (NO at stepS304), it is confirmed whether c=0 (step S323). If c=0 (YES at stepS323), a dialog box D1 in FIG. 6 is displayed and an input from a useris waited (step S324).

About the input to the dialog box D1, it is determined that whether “No(N)” (the icon 216) is selected (step S325), whether “Yes (Y)” (the icon212) is selected (step S326), whether “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” (theicon 214) is selected (step S327), whether “Modify Existing File Name(R)” (the icon 222) is selected (step S328), whether “Modify Newer FileName (T)” (the icon 224) is selected (step S329) and whether “Modify AllFile Names of Older Update Dates and Times Automatically Hereafter (O)”(the icon 226) is selected (step S330). If no selections are made, itmeans cancel of the process. Thus, the process is ended.

Unless c=0 (NO at step S323), it is confirmed whether c=1 (step S331).Unless c=1, that is, if c=2 (NO at step S331), a file name of olderupdate date and time out of files in the copy destination and copysource is automatically modified (step S332) and the process moves tostep S316 (FIG. 14). If c=1 (YES at step S331), the process moves tostep S316 (FIG. 14).

Concerning the input on the dialog box D1, if “No (N)” is selected (YESat step S325), the process moves to step S317 (FIG. 14). If “Yes (Y)” isselected (YES at step S326), the process moves to step S321 (FIG. 14).If “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” is selected (YES at step S327), 1 is setin c (step S333) and the process moves to step S318 (FIG. 14).

If “Modify Existing File Name (R)” is selected (YES at step S328), thefile name of the copy destination is modified (step S334) and theprocess moves to step S316 (FIG. 14). If “Modify Newer File Name (T)” isselected (YES at step S329), the file name of the copy destination ismodified (step S335) and the process moves to step S316 (FIG. 14). If“Modify File Names of Older Update Dates and Times AutomaticallyHereafter (O)” is selected (YES at step S330), 2 is set to d (stepS336), the file name of older update date and time out of the files inthe copy destination and the copy source is automatically modified (stepS332) and the process moves to step S316 (FIG. 14).

By the way, since c is initialized to 0 at first (c=0), if the nthfile's contents in the copy source and the contents of the same namefile in the copy destination do not coincide (NO at step S304), thedialog box D1 (FIG. 6) is displayed. In the dialog box D1, if the icon214 of “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” is not selected, since c=0 ismaintained, in the process at twice or over times, the dialog box D1 isdisplayed if the nth file's contents in the copy source and the contentsof the same name file in the copy destination do not coincide.

In the dialog box D1, if the icon 214 of “Yes to All Hereafter (A)” isselected, since c is modified to 1 (c=1), c does not equal 0 (c#0) afterthe process at the second time (NO at step S323). The dialog box D2 isnot displayed. The process moves to the copying process via step S331.

In step S331, the case of c=2 (NO at step S331) is that the icon 226 of“Modify All File Names of Older Update Dates and Times AutomaticallyHereafter (O)” is selected in the dialog box D1. In this case, as to afile of the same name and different contents, the dialog box D1 is notdisplayed. A file name of older update date and time is automaticallymodified (step S332).

In the embodiment, in case that a file is moved, for example as shown inFIG. 16, it may be structured that step S337 is set between step S316and step S317, and in case of moving a file, a process of erasing thefile in the copy source is executed.

Third Embodiment

A third embodiment of the present invention will be described withreference to FIGS. 17, 18A to 18E, 19 and 20. FIG. 17 is a flowchartshowing a processing program for copying a single file, FIGS. 18A to 18Edepict file processes of each case corresponding to determinationprocesses 1 to 4, FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a modifying process ofa file name and FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a variation of aprocessing program for copying a file.

In the third embodiment, the above described PC 22 (FIG. 3) is used.Details thereof are as described above.

While the above described processes (FIGS. 13 to 16) represent thecoping process of a plurality of files, this process represents acopying process of a single file as basic process procedure thereof. Theprocess includes that in case a file of the same name as a file in acopy source exists in a copy destination and file contents thereofcoincide, if file update date and time of the copy destination is newer,the file update date and time of the copy destination is made coincidewith that of the copy source. In the embodiment, display of dialog boxesis omitted.

(Determination Process of a File of the Same Name: Determination Process1)

It is determined whether a file of the same name as the file in the copysource exists in the copy destination folder (step S341).

(Determination Process of File Contents: Determination Process 2)

If a file of the same name exists (YES at step S341), a comparingprocess of files is executed and it is determined whether file contentsof the files in the copy source and copy destination coincide (stepS342).

(Determination Process Whether File Update Dates and Times Coincide:Determination Process 3)

If the file contents coincide (YES at step S342), it is determinedwhether file update dates and times of the files in the copy source andcopy destination coincide (step S343). If the update date and time ofeach file coincides (YES at step S343), the process is ended.

(Determination Process of Update Date and Time: Determination Process 4)

Unless update date and time of each file coincides (NO at step S343),whether the update date and time of the file in the copy destination isnewer is determined (step S344).

If the update date and time of the file in the copy destination is older(NO at step S344), the process is ended. If the update date and time ofthe file in the copy destination is newer (YES at step S344), the updatedate and time of the file in the copy destination is made coincide withthat of the file in the copy source (step S345) and the process isended.

Unless a file of the same name as the file in the copy source exists inthe copy destination folder (NO at step S341), the file in the copysource is copied in the copy destination folder (step S346) and theprocess is ended.

Unless the file contents of the files in the copy source and copydestination coincide (NO at step S342), it is determined whether theupdate date and time of the file in the copy destination is older thanthat of the file in the copy source (step S347). If the update date andtime of the file in the copy destination is older (YES at step S347),the filename of the file in the copy destination is modified (stepS348), the file in the copy source is copied to the copy destinationfolder (step S349) and the process is ended. If the update date and timeof the file in the copy destination is newer (NO at step S347), the filename of the file in the copy source is modified (step S350), the file inthe copy source is copied to the copy destination folder (step S351) andthe process is ended.

In this copying process of a single file, if a file of the same name asthe file in the copy source exists in the copy destination and thecontents thereof do not coincide, it may be structured that copying isexecuted after the file name of older update date and time is modified.The modifying process of the file name may be either a manual process oran automatic process.

The above described determination processes 1 to 4 will be describedwith reference to FIGS. 18A to 18E. FIGS. 18A to 18E depict a fileprocess of each case corresponding to determination processes 1 to 4.

If the file name of a copy source folder is, for example, “abc.jpg-”,following cases are assumed.

(Case 1)

Case 1 is that, as shown in FIG. 18A, the file whose name is “abc.jpg-”does not exist in the copy destination folder.

This case 1 becomes “NO” in the determination process (step S341) andthe file of the copy source is copied to the copy destination folder(step S346). Here, “copying” means processing operation that existenceof a file is generated in the copy destination folder, and file contentsis identical with that of the copy source and file update date and timeis also identical with that of the file in the copy source.

(Case 2)

Case 2 is that, as shown in FIG. 18B, the file whose name is “abc.jpg-”exists in the copy destination folder and contents thereof is differentfrom that of the file in the copy source. That is, case 2 is an occasionof “YES” at the determination process 1 (step S341).

In case 2, since the file whose name is “abc.jpg-” exists in the copydestination folder, the comparing process of the file contents(determination process 2: step S342) is executed. In advance of check ofidentity of the file contents, file sizes are compared. If the filesizes are different, the files are decided to have different filecontents (not coincide). If the file sizes are identical, the filecontents are compared. In this case, the contents of each file iscompared, for example, by 1 byte from a head of the file. If a differentpart of at least 1 byte exists, it is determined that the file contentsare different.

If the file contents do not coincide (NO at step S342), it is determinedwhether update date and time of a file in the copy destination is olderthan that of the file in the copy source, and the file name of the copydestination or copy source is modified. That is, in addition toautomatic modification of the file name, the file is copied and aprocess is executed that both files are left in the copy destinationfolder. As to modification of the file name, the file name of olderupdate date and time is, for example, modified to“abc-20050602-1450.jpg”.

When the file name is modified, in case same file name as a file name tobe renamed already exists, the contents of the already existing file arecompared. Incase of the same contents, copying is not executed. In caseof different contents, it is considered that another file was created atthe same date and time. The file name may be modified, for example,“abc-20050602-1450a.jpg-” or the file may be erased. If erased, twofiles of the same name and different contents are generated within apredetermined time, e.g., one minute. Since they are older than the fileto be copied, it is generally enough that one of them remains.

(Case 3)

Case 3 is that, as shown in FIG. 18C, the file whose name is “abc.jpg-”exists in the copy destination folder and both of the file contents andupdate date and time thereof coincide with those of a file in the copysource.

In this case, it is determined that the file in the copy sourcecompletely coincides with that in the copy destination. Since there isno meaning to copy, the process is ended without copying.

(Cases 4 and 5)

Case 4 is that, as shown in FIG. 18D, the file whose name is “abc.jpg-”exists in the copy destination folder and the file contents thereofcoincide with a file in the copy source but file update date and time ofthe file in the copy destination is older.

Case 5 is that, as shown in FIG. 18E, the file whose name is “abc.jpg-”exists in the copy destination folder and the file contents thereofcoincide with that of a file in the copy source but update date and timeof the file in the copy destination is newer.

In such cases 4 and 5, it is assumed that the files whose contents areidentical but update dates and times are different exist in the copysource and copy destination. In the copying process of a file in the PC22, such file creation cannot be assumed. Since concerning a fileattached to -e-mail and a file taken in from an http-server, update dateand time thereof is the time point when the PC 22 takes the file in, itis predicted that a file of the same name but different update date andtime is generated in the PC 22. It is in vain for memory to store anidentical file of different update date and time as another file in ahard disc, thus, the file is treated as the identical.

In case of files of identical contents but one has newer update date andtime and the other has older one, the file of older update date and timemay be set as original one as a manner supposing any one of the files asoriginal. Suppose either of the file in the copy source or the file inthe copy destination is original, the file of original update date andtime of the original may be left. Thus, in determination process 4 (stepS344), if it is determined that the file in the copy destination isnewer, the update date and time of the file in the copy destination ismodified to that of the file in the copy source (step S345).

The modifying process of the file name (step S348 in FIG. 17) will bedescribed with reference to FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing amodifying process of a file name.

From a file name and update date and time of an existing file in thecopy destination, a file name (a new file name) is generated (stepS4801). In this case, the new file name uses the update date and timeinformation for identification. For example, a file name existing in thecopy destination is “-abc.jpg” and update file date and time thereof is“17:30 on May 31, 2005”, a new file name, “-abc-20050531-1730.jpg” isgenerated. That is, it is an update of the file name in view of theupdate date and time.

Whether the file of the generated file name exists in the copydestination folder or not is determined (step S4802). If the file of thegenerated file name already exists in the copy destination folder (YESat step S4802), whether file contents of the file of the generated filename and the file in the copy destination are identical or not isdetermined (step S4803).

If the contents of the file of the generated file name are differentfrom those of the file in the copy destination (NO at step S4803), byaddition or update of a suffix to the file name, etc., candidates of thefile name are generated (step S4804) and the process returns to stepS4802.

In a generation process of the file name in step S4804, if an identicalfile name is, for example, “-abc-20050531-1730.jpg”, a candidate,“-abc-20050531-1730a.jpg-”, to which a suffix “a” is added, isgenerated, and as a result of retrieving the candidate name, if thecandidate name exists, for example, “abc-20050531-1730b.jpg-” isgenerated as the file name in which the suffix “a” is modified to asuffix “b”. As a result of retrieving the candidate name, if notexisting, the candidate name is generated as a new file name.

If the file of the generated name does not exist in the copy destinationfolder (NO at step S4802), the name of the file in the copy destinationis modified to the generated file name (step S4805), and the process isended and returns to step S348 (FIG. 17).

If the contents of the file of the generated name are identical withthose of the file existed in the copy destination folder (YES at stepS4803), the file in the copy destination is erased (step S4806), and theprocess is ended and returns to step S348 (FIG. 17). Erasing the filecontributes to reducing memory in a recording medium because of erasingthe unnecessary file of the same name and contents.

By the way, as to an example of such file process, description will bemade with reference to a concrete example. As a premise for example, afile name of the copy source is “abc.jpg-”, and files of differentcontents, whose names are “abc.jpg-” and “abc-20050531-1780.jpg”, existin the copy destination. First, in case the file “abc.jpg-” in the copysource is copied to the copy destination folder, another file of thedifferent contents, “abc.jpg-”, exists in the copy destination. Sincethe file contents are different, both of them are wanted to be stored.

In this case, to modify the file in the copy destination, a new filename is generated. In this example, “abc-20050531-1780.jpg” is generatedas the file name. If the file of the same name as the generated filename does not exist in the copy destination, after the file name“abc.jpg-” of the copy destination is modified to“abc-20050531-1780.jpg”, the file in the copy source, whose name is“abc.jpg-”, is copied to the copy destination, and the copying processis ended.

Here, in case that the file in the copy destination, “abc.jpg-”, isbeing modified to the file “abc-20050531-1780.jpg”, if another file ofthe same name “abc-20050531-1780.jpg” (it is unknown whether filecontents thereof are identical) exists in the copy destination, it is aproblem whether the contents of the file whose name is “abc.jpg-” areidentical with those of the file “abc-20050531-1780.jpg” in the copydestination or not. If both of the file contents coincide, although thefile of the name “abc.jpg-” existing in the copy destination is erased,since the file of the same contents remains as a file whose name is“abc-20050531-1780.jpg” to be stored, there is no problem. The file ofthe name “abc.jpg-” in the copy destination is erased. Afterward, thefile of the name “abc.jpg-” in the copy source is overwritten on thefile of the name “abc.jpg-” in the copy destination. If the filecontents do not coincide, there is a request that the file of the name“abc.jpg-” in the copy source, the files of the name “abc.jpg-” and“abc-2050531-1780.jpg” in the copy destination are left. Thus, a filename that a suffix like “abc-20050531-1780a.jpg-” is added to the filename “abc.jpg-” in the copy destination is generated. The process isrepeated till the state where the files of non-overlapped and overlappednames have totally identical file contents, thus file names and contentsare arranged.

In the embodiment, in case of file movement, for example as shown inFIG. 20, it may be configured that step S352 is set after step S346 anda process of erasing the file of the copy source is executed. It may beconfigured that Steps S353 and S354 are set after step S349 or S351 andthe process of erasing the file in the copy source is executed, as well.

Fourth Embodiment

A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described withreference to FIGS. 21, 22, and 23. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing aprocessing program for copying a single file, FIGS. 22 and 23 are anexample of a dialog box used for confirmation of modifying file updatedate and time. In FIG. 21, the same components as the same parts of aflowchart in FIG. 17 or 20 are denoted by the same reference numerals,and the description is omitted.

In the fourth embodiment, the above described PC 22 (FIG. 3) is alsoused. Details thereof are as described above.

In the copying process of a single file showing in FIG. 17, in case thedialog box is displayed and a process is selected by a user, as shown inFIG. 21, it may be configured that step S355 is set before the stage ofstep S345, a dialog box D5 (FIG. 22) is displayed and modification offile update date and time is confirmed.

In this case, in the dialog box D5, as shown in FIG. 22, it is displayedas file information on a title bar 204 that “Confirm Modification ofUpdate Date and Time of File”, an icon 206 representative of the processof copying or moving a file, icons 208 and 210 representative of files,“This folder already contains a file named ‘patent.doc’ of the samecontents.”,

“Would you like to modify update date and time of the existing file

-   -   19.0 KB    -   updated: 21 Jul. 2004, 17:20:00

to this one?

-   -   19.0 KB    -   updated: 21 Jul. 2004, 15:30:00”        as file size and update dates and times thereof, for example,        and icons 212, 216 and 218 for inputting a response. It is        displayed that on the icon 212, “Yes (Y)” representative of an        affirmation input, on the icon 216, “No (N)” representative of a        negation input, and on the icon 218, “Cancel” representative of        an input for cancelling the process.

By such selection input from the dialog box D5 (FIG. 22), afterconfirmation whether the file update date and time can be modified, theprocess returns to step S345 (FIG. 21).

In the copying process of a single file shown in FIG. 17, in case stepS355 is set before the stage of step s345, it may be configured that adialog box D6 (FIG. 23) is displayed and modification of the file updatedate and time is confirmed.

In this case, in the dialog box D6, as shown in FIG. 23, it is displayedas file information on the title bar 204 that “Confirm Modification ofUpdate Date and Time of File”, the icon 206 representative of theprocess of copying or moving a file, the icons 208 and 210representative of files, “This folder already contains a file named‘patent.doc’ of the same contents.”,

“Would you like to modify update date and time of the existing file

-   -   19.0 KB    -   updated: 21 Jul. 2004, 17:20:00

to this one?

-   -   19.0 KB    -   updated: 21 Jul. 2004, 15:30:00”        as file sizes and update dates and times thereof, for example,        and icons 212, 216, 218, 228 and 230 for inputting a response.        It is displayed that on the icon 212, “Yes (Y)” representative        of an affirmation input, on the icon 216, “No (N)”        representative of a negation input, on the icon 218, “Cancel”        representative of an input for cancelling the process, on an        icon 228, “Modify All Update Dates and Times to Newer Ones        Hereafter (L)” and on the icon 230, “Modify All Update Dates and        Times to Older Ones Hereafter (O)”.

By such selection input from the dialog box D6 (FIG. 23), it may beconfigured that after confirmation of whether the update date and timeof the file can be modified, the process returns to step S345 (FIG. 21).

Fifth Embodiment

A fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described withreference to FIGS. 24 and 25. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing aprocessing program for copying a single file and FIG. 25 depicts anexample of a dialog box. In FIG. 24, the same components as the sameparts of the flowchart in FIG. 17 or 20 are denoted by the samereference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

In the fifth embodiment, the above described PC 22 (FIG. 3) is alsoused. Details thereof are as described above.

In the copying process of a single file showing in FIG. 17, in case thedialog box is displayed and a process is selected by a user, as shown inFIG. 24, it may be configured that step S356 is set before the stage ofstep S348, a dialog box D7 (FIG. 25) is displayed and file namemodification is confirmed.

In this case, in the dialog box D7, as shown in FIG. 25, it is displayedas file information on a title bar 204 that “Confirm Modification ofFile Name”,

-   -   “A copy destination contains a file whose contents are different        from contents of a copy source.    -   Would you like to copy a file with modifying an older file        name?”,        and icons 212, 216 and 218 for inputting a response. It is        displayed that on the icon 212, “Yes (Y)” representative of an        affirmation input, on the icon 216, “No (N)” representative of a        negation input, and on the icon 218, “Cancel” representative of        an input for cancelling the process.

By such selection input from the dialog box D7 (FIG. 25), afterconfirmation of whether the file name can be modified, the processreturns to step S348 (FIG. 24).

Sixth Embodiment

A sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described withreference to FIGS. 26 and 27. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing aprocessing program for copying a single file and FIG. 27 depicts anexample of a dialog box. In FIG. 26, the same components as the sameparts of the flowchart in FIG. 17 or 20 are denoted by the samereference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

In the sixth embodiment, the above described PC 22 (FIG. 3) is used.Details thereof are as described above.

In the copying process of a single file showing in FIG. 17, in case thedialog box is displayed and s process is selected by a user, as shown inFIG. 26, it may be configured that step S357 is set before the stage ofstep S347, a dialog box D8 (FIG. 27) is displayed and file namemodification is confirmed.

In this case, in the dialog box D8, as shown in FIG. 27, it is displayedas file information on a title bar 204 that “Confirm Modification ofFile Name”,

-   -   “A copy destination contains a file whose contents are different        from contents of a copy source.    -   Would you like to copy a file after a file name of copy        destination is modified?

Or, after a file name of the copy source is modified?”, and icons 216,208, 240 and 242 for inputting a response. It is displayed that on theicon 216, “No (N)” representative of a negation input, on the icon 218,“Cancel” representative of an input for cancelling the process, on theicon 240, “copy after modification of the file name of the copydestination”, and on the icon 242, “copy after modification of the filename of the copy source”.

By such selection input from the dialog box D8 (FIG. 27), afterconfirmation of whether the file name can be modified, the processreturns to step S347 (FIG. 17).

Seventh Embodiment

A seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described withreference to FIGS. 28 and 29. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a comparingprocess of assuming that file size is huge and FIG. 29 depicts a dialogbox according to the seventh embodiment. In FIG. 28, the same componentsas the same parts of the flowchart in FIG. 17 or 20 are denoted by thesame reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

As aspect of comparing file contents, if file size of compared files aredifferent, there is no need for comparing the file contents (data) toknow that the file contents do not coincide. Thus, if the file sizes donot coincide, the file contents may be processed as noncoincidencewithout comparing the contents thereof.

In the embodiment, a file whose size is over some part of size, forexample, 3 MB is considered as a huge file. If contents within the rangefrom the top of the file till 3 MB coincide, a user (an operator) isinquired whether the file contents of the following part are consideredas coinciding or the comparing is continued till the end, so that thecomparing process is made. In this case, it is an example whether a fileover 3 MB is regarded as a huge file. File size may be under or over 3MB.

As shown in FIG. 28, in the copying process of a file, it is determinedwhether a file of the same name as a file in a copy source exists in acopy destination folder (step S341: FIG. 17 or FIG. 20). For example, incase file contents within the range from the top of the file till 3 MBas a predetermined range coincide, as shown in FIG. 29, a dialog box D9representative of a comparing result from the top till 3 MB isdisplayed. In the dialog box D9, for example, “confirm file comparison”is displayed in a title bar 204 and

“File contents of the top 3 MB coincide.

Would you like to compare files till the end?”

is displayed.

In response to the display, icons 212, 216 and 218 to select whether thecomparing process is continued are displayed. “YES (Y)” representativeof an affirmation input on the icon 212, “NO (N)” representative of anegation input on the icon 216, and “Cancel” representative of ancancelling input of the process on the icon 218 are displayed.

In the dialog box D9, as a selection result in case a negation input“NO” of the icon 216 is selected, for example,

-   -   “If you select No, the file is regarded as having the same        contents.”        is displayed. The process means, by regarding as the same file        by the comparing result of the predetermined size, that the        comparing process of the file is cancelled.

Like this, if assumed that file size is huge, a following process alsocan be made. If a file of the same name as a file in the copy sourceexists in the copy destination folder (YES at step S341), the comparingprocess of a file is executed. It is determined whether file contents ofthe top part as a predetermined size, for example, 3 MB coincide betweenthe file in the copy source and the file in the copy destination (stepS3421). If the file contents thereof are different within the range fromthe top to 3 MB (NO at step S3421), the process of step S347 (FIG. 17)is executed.

If the file contents thereof coincide at the part of 3 MB (YES at stepS3421), the dialog box D9 shown in FIG. 29 is displayed and input iswaited (step S3422). In this case, in the dialog box D9 (FIG. 29), thedetermination whether “YES” is selected is executed (step S3423). If“NO” is selected (NO at step S3423), the process of step S343 (FIG. 17)is executed.

In the dialog box D9 (FIG. 29), if “YES” is selected (YES at stepS3423), it is determined whether file contents after the preceding 3 MBpart (the following part) coincide between the file in the copy sourceand the file in the copy destination (step S3424). If the file contentsafter 3 MB coincide (YES at step S3424), the process of step S343 (FIG.17) is executed.

If the contents after 3 MB do not coincide (NO at step S3424), theprocess of step S347 (FIG. 17) is executed.

As described above, in case a file of the same name exists, sincewhether file contents thereof coincide is not compared along all of thesize, the process can be moved to the next stage rapidly by a stop ofthe comparing process of a file of a huge size. In this case, it iswithout saying that determination of coinciding or not can be done asthe comparing result if file size is less than 3 MB.

Eighth Embodiment

An eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described withreference to FIG. 30. FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing another comparingprocess of considering whether file size coincides. In FIG. 30, the samecomponents in FIG. 28 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the embodiment, in advance of comparison of file contents, a processis added that file size is compared and if the size is different, thecontents are assumed not to coincide. In case the file size isdifferent, a comparing process of the contents is unnecessary. Thus,speedier process can be realized.

As shown in FIG. 30, step S3425 is set at the front step of step S3421of a flowchart shown in FIG. 29, and whether file sizes of the files ina copy source and copy destination coincide is determined (step S3425).After the determination, if the structure is made that the processreturns to step S3421 or step S347 (FIG. 17), the above described speedyprocess can be done.

Like this, in case a file of the same name exists, coinciding or not offile size is powerful information on the file being identical or not. Ifthe file size coincides, by comparison of file contents from the top tothe predetermined range, determination accuracy whether the filecontents coincide or not improves. Since whether the file contentscoincide or not is not compared along all of the size, the process canbe moved to the next stage rapidly.

Ninth Embodiment

A ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described withreference to FIG. 31. FIG. 31 depicts an information processing systemusing the above described information processing method, informationprocessing program, information processing device and recording medium.

In the above embodiments, copying, moving or overwriting a file wasexplained with the example of the PC 22 (FIG. 3). The present inventioncan widely apply to file exchange, etc. between information processingdevices. In the above embodiment (FIG. 18), a picture file of a digitalcamera is exemplified. The same process can be done with all of thefiles such as document file and other files able to be used by acomputer. The process is not limited in a picture file taken by adigital camera, and can be used in general files.

For example, in this information processing system 40, a plurality ofPCs 22A, 22B and 22C as information processing devices, and a cellularphone 42, a personal digital assistant (PDA) 44, a digital camera 46,etc. also as information processing devices are connected to the PC 22Avia a universal serial bus (USB) cable, etc. The PC 22A and PC 22B areconnected by a line 48 configured by wired or wireless connections, andconnected to the PC 22C by a network 50 such as the internet orintranet. The PC 22C configures, for example, a server, and the PC 22Aand PC 22B are clients.

In such structure, data between the PC 22A and the PC 22B, cellularphone 42, PDA 44 or digital camera 46 is sent and received. Data betweenthe PC 22A and PC 22C is also sent and received via the network 50.

In such sending and receiving data, the above described copying, movingor overwriting a file can be executed, and efficient file processing andstoring thereof can be done.

As being clarified from each embodiment described above, the presentinvention extracted from each embodiment is wide. The structure of thepresent invention relating to copying or moving a file and to achievethe objects of improving convenience of the file process, reduction ofwork and efficiency of the file process is described from an aspect ofrecording medium as follows.

That is, an aspect of the present invention relating to a recordingmedium used for file processing to achieve the above objects there isprovided a recording medium that records an information processingprogram for causing a computer to execute copying or moving a file,comprising the step of: comparing file information and determiningwhether the file information coincides, wherein comparing elements ofthe file information include file contents.

Another aspect of the present invention to achieve the above objectsthere is provided a recording medium that records an informationprocessing program for causing a computer to execute copying or moving afile, comprising the steps of: comparing file names of a copy source andcopy destination, and determining whether a file of the same name existsin the copy destination or movement destination; in case a file of thesame name exists in the copy destination, comparing file contents anddetermining whether the file contents are identical; and outputting acomparing result.

To achieve the above objects, in the recording medium, preferably theinformation processing program may comprise the steps of: in case thefile contents are identical, comparing file date and time; in case thefile date and time is different, inquiring whether the file date andtime is modified; and in response to the inquiry, modifying the date andtime.

To achieve the above objects, in the recording medium, preferably theinformation processing program may comprise the steps of: in case thefile contents are different, inquiring whether the file of the copysource is overwritten on the file of the copy destination; and inresponse to a response to the inquiry, overwriting the file.

To achieve the above objects, in the recording medium, preferably theinformation processing program may comprise the steps of: in case thefile contents are different, inquiring whether the file name ismodified; and in response to a response to the inquiry, modifying thefile name.

Another aspect of the present invention to achieve the above objectsthere is provided a recording medium that records an informationprocessing program for causing a computer to execute copying or moving afile, comprising the steps of: comparing file names of a copy source andcopy destination, and determining whether a file of the same name existsin the copy destination; in case a file of the same name exists in thecopy destination, comparing file sizes and determining whether the filesizes are identical; and outputting a comparing result.

To achieve the above objects, in the recording medium, preferably theinformation processing program may comprise the step of: in case thecompared file size is huge, inquiring whether the comparison of the fileis continued.

In the above embodiments, in the comparison of the file contents, dateand time thereof is used for comparing information. A process can beincluded that the date and time comprises only day, or comprises hour,minute and second.

While the present invention has been described with the preferredembodiments, the description is not intended to limit the presentinvention. Various modifications of the embodiments based on the subjectmatters and objects described in claims or disclosed in thisspecification will be apparent to those skilled in the techniques, andsuch modifications rightfully fall within the true scope of the presentinvention.

The present invention relates to copying or moving a file in aninformation processing device such as a personal computer (PC). Aboutcopying or moving a file, user's operation can be reduced and fileprocessing can be facilitated to be efficient. Also, about copying ormoving a file, the present invention can contribute to efficiency offile management and storage.

What is claimed is:
 1. An information processing method comprising:comparing, by a computer, a file name of a first file of copying ormoving or both with a file name of a second file of a copy destinationor a movement destination; displaying, by a computer, a first operationpart, a second operation part and a third operation part on a samedialog box when the file names of the first file and the second file areidentical as a result of the comparing, the first operation part beingfor instructing that the second file be overwritten with the first file,the second operation part being for instructing that the file name ofthe first file be modified and the first file be copied or moved to thecopy destination or the movement destination, the third operation partbeing for instructing that it be negatived to overwrite the second filewith the first file; and executing, by a computer, a process instructedby the first operation part, the second operation part or the thirdoperation part in accordance with an instruction to select any one ofthe first operation part, the second operation part and the thirdoperation part, wherein the executing a process instructed by the secondoperation part includes attaching a numeral to an end of the file nameof the first file to change the file name of the first file.
 2. Anon-transitory computer readable medium having stored therein a programfor causing a computer to execute an information processing processcomprising: comparing a file name of a first file of copying or movingor both with a file name of a second file of a copy destination or amovement destination; displaying a first operation part, a secondoperation part and a third operation part on a same dialog box when thefile names of the first file and the second file are identical as aresult of the comparing, the first operation part being for instructingthat the second file be overwritten with the first file, the secondoperation part being for instructing that the file name of the firstfile be modified and the first file be copied or moved to the copydestination or the movement destination, the third operation part beingfor instructing that it be negatived to overwrite the second file withthe first file; and executing a process instructed by the firstoperation part, the second operation part or the third operation part inaccordance with an instruction to select any one of the first operationpart, the second operation part and the third operation part, whereinthe executing a process instructed by the second operation part includesattaching a numeral to an end of the file name of the first file tochange the file name of the first file.
 3. An information processingdevice comprising: a display that displays a dialog box; and aprocessing unit that compares a file name of a first file of copying ormoving or both, with a file name of a second file of a copy destinationor a movement destination, displays a first operation part, a secondoperation part and a third operation part on a same dialog box displayedon the display when the file names of the first file and the second fileare identical as a result of the comparing, the first operation partbeing for instructing that the second file be overwritten with the firstfile, the second operation part being for instructing that the file nameof the first file be modified and the first file be copied or moved tothe copy destination or the movement destination, the third operationpart being for instructing that it be negatived to overwrite the secondfile with the first file, and executes a process instructed by the firstoperation part, the second operation part or the third operation part inaccordance with an instruction to select any one of the first operationpart, the second operation part and the third operation part, whereinthe executing a process instructed by the second operation part includesattaching a numeral to an end of the file name of the first file tochange the file name of the first file.